Introduction
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
Dhurandhar (2025) is an ambitious Hindi-language spy action thriller that aims to redefine the scale and seriousness of Indian espionage cinema. Directed and written by Aditya Dhar, the film blends intelligence operations, crime politics, and real-world geopolitical tensions into a dark, gripping narrative. Backed by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, and featuring a powerful ensemble cast led by Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna, Dhurandhar presents a world where loyalty is fragile and survival demands ruthless choices. With its realistic tone, layered storytelling, and inspiration drawn from some of the most defining moments in modern Indian history, the film positions itself as more than just an action spectacle—it is a deep dive into the unseen wars fought in the shadows.
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
Storyline Overview
The film is structured into eight chapters, each adding depth and intensity to the narrative. The story begins in 1999, during negotiations to free Indian hostages from Kandahar. These events plant the seeds for “Operation Dhurandhar,” a long-term intelligence mission approved after the 2001 Parliament attack.
The plot follows Hamza Ali Mazari, an undercover Indian agent sent deep into Pakistan via Afghanistan. His mission is to infiltrate the dangerous criminal and political underworld of Lyari, Karachi. Posing as a local Baloch, Hamza slowly earns trust while working as a waiter and later rising within the ranks of gangster Rehman Dakait’s network.
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
As Hamza becomes more embedded, the film explores gang rivalries, political manipulation, and the deep nexus between crime syndicates, businessmen, and intelligence agencies. The narrative skillfully shows how power shifts in Lyari, with elections, betrayals, and brutal violence shaping the region’s fate.
The emotional weight increases when Hamza witnesses the 26/11 Mumbai attacks on live television. This moment becomes a turning point, pushing him from silent observer to active disruptor. What follows is a dangerous web of alliances, deception, and moral compromise that leads to a shocking climax involving betrayal, identity revelation, and the fall of Rehman Dakait.
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
Performances and Characters
Ranveer Singh delivers one of his most restrained and intense performances to date. As Hamza Ali Mazari (later revealed as Jaskirat Singh Rangi), he balances vulnerability, rage, and cold calculation with remarkable control. His transformation from an undercover operative to a man burdened by guilt and purpose is convincing and powerful.
Akshaye Khanna shines as Ajay Sanyal, bringing quiet authority and intelligence to his role. R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, and Sanjay Dutt add gravitas, each portraying morally complex characters who operate in grey zones. Sara Arjun, as Yalina Jamali, brings emotional depth, while the supporting cast strengthens the film’s realism.
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
Direction, Cinematography and Music
Aditya Dhar’s direction is confident and uncompromising. He does not shy away from showing the ugliness of violence or the psychological cost of espionage. The pacing, though engaging in parts, does suffer due to the film’s extended runtime, which may test some viewers’ patience.
Vikash Nowlakha’s cinematography captures the chaos of Karachi’s streets, the harsh landscapes of Ladakh, and the tension of covert operations with striking visuals. The action sequences feel grounded rather than stylised, adding to the film’s authenticity.
Shashwat Sachdev’s background score enhances the tension without overpowering the narrative. The music subtly supports the mood, especially during emotional and high-stakes moments.
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
Themes and Impact
Dhurandhar explores themes of nationalism, identity, sacrifice, and the moral cost of long-term undercover missions. It questions whether ends justify means and highlights how intelligence work often destroys the lives of those involved. The film also comments on the dangerous overlap between politics, crime, and terrorism in South Asia.
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
Conclusion
Despite its lengthy runtime, Dhurandhar stands out as one of the most ambitious Indian spy thrillers in recent years. Strong performances, realistic storytelling, and high production values make it a compelling watch for fans of action, political drama, and espionage cinema. While tighter editing could have improved the pacing, the film’s scale and emotional depth outweigh its flaws.
As the first installment of a two-part series, Dhurandhar successfully sets the stage for its sequel, Dhurandhar: Part 2 – Revenge. For viewers seeking an intense, thought-provoking, and gritty spy thriller, Dhurandhar is a must-watch.
Dhurandhar 2025 movie review
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